California Governor's Race Early Contenders

This is a Yee news story, published by CalMatters, that relates primarily to Thurmond news.

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CalMatters

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Candidates for California governor mostly agree as they face off two years before the election

Summary

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80% Informative

Four Democrats running for governor in 2026 answer questions before the National Union of Healthcare Workers and the Los Angeles Times .

Candidates sounded nearly indistinguishable in their positions on the progressive priorities and unresolved problems likely to define the election in this liberal state.

One of the few issues raised where the foursome did not sound in total lockstep was Proposition 36 , a measure on the November ballot to increase the penalties for repeat theft and drug crimes.

Thurmond , Atkins , Yee and Villaraigosa would make history by winning the governorship.

Atkins, Kounalakis or Yee would be California ’s first woman governor.

Atkins would also be the first openly LGBTQ+ person to lead the state.

At least two top Democrats are reportedly still considering whether to enter the race.

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informal

Language

English

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